Archive note: this article on where to get a Covid test before a flight was written during the Covid period and reflects the rules, providers and prices of that time. It is kept for reference only and is not current travel guidance.
Where can you get a Covid test before a flight abroad, or one to shorten quarantine? As is well known, the health funds no longer offer a free test for travel. Results from the health funds carry the words “not for flight and travel”, so they cannot be used, and it does not look as though the funds will bring the service back soon.
Make sure the test you take for a trip abroad is a PCR test. Most countries that ask for a Covid test require PCR.
Places offering a Covid test before a flight
There are several options, and they keep expanding. You can also order a test to your home.
Pharmacies and clinics
- Pharmacy chains: Be and Super-Pharm offer tests at a number of branches, with results within 24 hours. For details, check the websites of Be, Super-Pharm and Good Pharm.
- Bikur Rofeh: tests at 22 branches around the country for 99 shekels, with results within 24 hours. An appointment must be booked in advance.
- Magen David Adom: 17 stations around the country, at 135 shekels per test, in cooperation with Ichilov. There are discounts for customers of various insurance companies. Results within 24 hours.
- Hospitals: tests are also available at hospitals such as Rambam, Ichilov, Assaf Harofeh, Assuta and others. Check with the hospital for full details.
At and around Ben Gurion Airport
- AIDG: rapid tests at Ben Gurion, on the fast lane of Highway 1, at Bikur Rofeh and at Sonol petrol stations nationwide. Fast results from 99 shekels per test.
- Check2Fly: Airport City and further branches in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Beersheba, from 75 shekels per test.
- Test2Fly: a drive-in at Ben Gurion, open 24/7, from 89 shekels per test.
A test at home
Home testing services exist as well. They cost more, but there are real advantages: a time that suits you, a test in your own home and no long wait in a queue. Results are usually very fast.
The information in this post is for general knowledge only and was correct at the time of writing. Check with the providers themselves for exact, current details.
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